Redox regulation of the actin cytoskeleton and its role in the vascular system

The actin cytoskeleton is critical for form and function of vascular cells, serving mechanical, organizational and signaling roles. Because many cytoskeletal proteins are sensitive to reactive oxygen species, redox regulation has emerged as a pivotal modulator of the actin cytoskeleton and its associated proteins. Here, we summarize work implicating oxidants in altering actin cytoskeletal proteins and focus on how these alterations affect cell migration, proliferation and contraction of vascular cells. Finally, we discuss the role of oxidative modification of the actin cytoskeleton in vivo and highlight its importance for vascular diseases. •The actin cytoskeleton serves structural and signaling functions in vascular cells.•Actin, its binding proteins and upstream signaling activators are oxidized by reactive oxygen species.•Redox-regulation of the actin signaling network is involved in multiple cellular functions.•Redox modification of actin cytoskeletal proteins may contribute to vascular disease.